Tsutenkaku Tower Osaka
Osaka's iconic landmark in Shinsekai, offering panoramic city views and a thrilling 60m slide.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden hour views
Tsutenkaku Tower Osaka
Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden hour views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Osaka's iconic landmark in Shinsekai, offering panoramic city views and a thrilling 60m slide.
"Experience the thrill of the Tower Slide and stunning Osaka views from this retro icon!"
✨ Osaka Amazing Pass
Unlock savings with the Osaka Amazing Pass for entry to Tsutenkaku Tower and other attractions!
🎢 Thrilling Tower Slide
Don't miss the 60m slide for an unforgettable thrill! Book tickets in advance.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Tsutenkaku Tower Observation Deck
Top floors
Ascend to the observation decks for panoramic views of Osaka's vibrant cityscape. A must-see landmark!
The Tower Slide
3rd floor to basement
Experience a thrilling 60-meter descent down a transparent slide. Pure adrenaline rush!
Billiken Statue
Inside the tower
Meet the 'God of Things As They Ought To Be' and make a wish. A quirky and iconic resident!
Planning Your Visit
Osaka Amazing Pass Value
Shinsekai Area Safety
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
✨ Osaka Amazing Pass
Unlock savings with the Osaka Amazing Pass for entry to Tsutenkaku Tower and other attractions!
🎢 Thrilling Tower Slide
Don't miss the 60m slide for an unforgettable thrill! Book tickets in advance. 
📸 Capture the Views
The observation deck offers stunning cityscapes, perfect for photos.
🚶♂️ Explore Shinsekai
Wander the retro streets of Shinsekai before or after your tower visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
✨ Osaka Amazing Pass
Unlock savings with the Osaka Amazing Pass for entry to Tsutenkaku Tower and other attractions!
🎢 Thrilling Tower Slide
Don't miss the 60m slide for an unforgettable thrill! Book tickets in advance.
📸 Capture the Views
The observation deck offers stunning cityscapes, perfect for photos.
🚶♂️ Explore Shinsekai
Wander the retro streets of Shinsekai before or after your tower visit.
💰 Ticket Bundles
Look for combo tickets that might include the tower and other local attractions.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Tsutenkaku Tower for its iconic status, stunning city views from the observation decks, and the unique thrill of the Tower Slide. The surrounding Shinsekai district adds to the charm with its retro atmosphere and famous Kushikatsu. Some minor concerns are occasionally raised about the general upkeep of the broader Shinsekai area, but the tower itself and its immediate surroundings are generally well-regarded.
"We visited both the tower and enjoyed the views from inside and outside they were truly beautiful. There’s also a small museum inside the tower, which was a nice surprise.
We decided to try the slide down, which was a lot of fun! However, I didn’t put the protective helmet on properly, and unfortunately, it bumped against my head during the slide. I ended up with a mild concussion and had a headache for the rest of the week. So, definitely make sure to wear the helmet correctly safety first!"
Laloena Aacher
"My first time in a tower/observation deck here in Japan! The place was good and we even went outside to see the view. Surprisingly, it wasn’t that scary.
It’s a fun experience but I probably won’t come back so I gave it a 4 star. Also, I prefer the view more on the observation deck of Osaka Castle.
By the way Shinsekai is great too! Really fun and lively place. 🫶🏻"
Iris Florentino
"This place was included in the Osaka Day Pass (along with the tower slide) so get that if you are looking for great value in Osaka!
With the day pass it was really smooth. The only wait was for the lift. The views up here was really good, they have many stamps available too. However, do note that there is paid access to the floor even higher than the observation deck. The one included in the pass is more than enough though!
They also have a section to show the history of the tower and the famous glico man. Definitely interesting and worth the time taken to explore!"
Kelly Yip
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Tsutenkaku Tower is easily accessible via public transport. The closest stations are Ebisucho Station (Sakaisuji Line) and Dobutsuen-mae Station (Midosuji Line and Sakaisuji Line). From these stations, it's a short walk to the tower.
Tsutenkaku Tower is located in the Shinsekai district, which is a few subway stops south of the popular Namba and Dotonbori areas. You can easily reach it by taking the Midosuji Line from Namba to Dobutsuen-mae.
If you have the Osaka Amazing Pass, you can use it for unlimited rides on Osaka Metro lines, making it convenient to reach Tsutenkaku Tower from various parts of the city.
While there are parking lots in the Shinsekai area, it's generally recommended to use public transportation due to potential traffic and parking costs.
Walking to Tsutenkaku Tower from major hubs like Namba or Osaka Castle would be a significant distance. Public transport is the most efficient method.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary for the main observation deck and the special outdoor observatory. The Tower Slide has a separate fee. Check the official website for the most current pricing.
Yes, purchasing tickets online in advance is often recommended, especially if you want to secure a spot for the Tower Slide or avoid queues during peak times.
If you plan to visit several Osaka attractions, the Osaka Amazing Pass can offer significant savings, as it often includes entry to Tsutenkaku Tower and other popular sites.
Tsutenkaku Tower generally opens in the morning and closes in the evening. It's best to check the official website for exact daily hours, as they can vary.
It is highly recommended to book the Tower Slide in advance, as slots can fill up quickly due to its popularity.
🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience
Besides enjoying the panoramic views from the observation decks, you can experience the thrilling Tower Slide, visit the Billiken statue, and explore the retro atmosphere of the Shinsekai district surrounding the tower.
The Tower Slide is a 60-meter-long, transparent slide that takes you from the third floor (22 meters high) to the basement in about 10 seconds. You can even download a video of your ride.
Absolutely! The observation decks offer fantastic opportunities for cityscape photography, especially during sunset and at night when the tower and surrounding area are illuminated.
The Billiken is a symbol of good luck and prosperity, often referred to as the 'God of Things As They Ought To Be.' Visitors can make a wish at the statue.
During the day, the Shinsekai area around Tsutenkaku Tower is generally considered safe and is filled with tourists. Some discussions mention caution in the broader area south of the tower, but the immediate vicinity is popular and lively. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Shinsekai is famous for Kushikatsu, a type of deep-fried skewers. Many restaurants in the area specialize in this local delicacy.
While the primary focus is the observation decks and attractions, there are often cafes or small eateries within or near the tower complex. For a wider selection, explore the Shinsekai district.
The Shinsekai district surrounding Tsutenkaku Tower is packed with eateries, from casual Kushikatsu joints to ramen shops and izakayas. Yaekatsu is a popular Kushikatsu spot.
There are typically cafes on the observation decks or within the tower where you can grab a drink or snack while taking in the views.
Beyond Kushikatsu in Shinsekai, Osaka is known for Takoyaki (octopus balls), Okonomiyaki (savory pancake), and Kitsune Udon.
📸 📸 Photography
The observation decks offer stunning panoramic views of Osaka. The exterior of the tower itself, especially at night with its colorful illuminations, is also a great photo opportunity.
While you can't take photos during the slide itself, you can capture the entrance and exit points. There's also an option to purchase a video of your slide experience.
Late afternoon for golden hour views and sunset, or at night when the tower and city lights create a vibrant spectacle.
Tripod usage policies can vary. It's advisable to check with the tower staff upon arrival, as they may have restrictions during busy periods.
Yes, posing with the Billiken statue inside the tower is a popular and unique photo opportunity for visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Exploring the Shinsekai district around the tower can also be an engaging experience with its unique atmosphere and street food options like Kushikatsu. Consider purchasing the Osaka Amazing Pass if you plan on visiting multiple attractions, as it can offer good value for families.
💰 Budget Travelers
Even without the pass, the tower offers a relatively affordable way to get great city views compared to some other observation decks. Exploring the Shinsekai district itself is free and offers a vibrant atmosphere. You can enjoy the sights and sounds, and find budget-friendly Kushikatsu and other local street food options for meals.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't forget to capture the tower's iconic exterior, particularly its colorful illuminations after dark. For a unique shot, consider the Tower Slide entrance and exit points. While you can't photograph during the slide, the surrounding retro architecture of Shinsekai also offers plenty of interesting visual elements for street photography.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Tsutenkaku Tower
Inside, visitors can explore multiple observation decks offering breathtaking panoramic views of Osaka. The main deck provides a sweeping vista, while the newer 'Top Deck' offers a more exclusive experience with glass floors and stunning cityscapes. The tower also houses the beloved Billiken statue, a symbol of good luck, adding a touch of whimsy to the visit.
Beyond the views, Tsutenkaku Tower has embraced modern attractions. The addition of the 'Tower Slide' has become a major draw, offering a thrilling 60-meter descent for adrenaline seekers. This blend of classic observation and modern entertainment makes Tsutenkaku Tower a multifaceted destination for all types of visitors.
Shinsekai: Osaka's 'New World'
This district is particularly famous for its culinary scene, especially Kushikatsu. These deep-fried skewers, served with a special dipping sauce (remember: no double-dipping!), are a must-try when visiting Shinsekai. Restaurants like Yaekatsu are renowned for their delicious Kushikatsu, drawing crowds eager to sample this local specialty.
While the area has a distinct charm, some travelers note that parts of Shinsekai can appear a bit run-down or faded. However, during the day, the presence of numerous tourists makes it feel lively and safe. It's this unique blend of retro charm, culinary delights, and a slightly gritty authenticity that makes Shinsekai a memorable part of any Osaka itinerary.
The Thrill of the Tsutenkaku Tower Slide
This attraction is perfect for thrill-seekers and those looking for a fun, unconventional way to descend the tower. The transparent nature of the slide allows riders to see their surroundings as they speed down, adding to the excitement. It's a popular feature, and booking in advance is highly recommended to secure your spot.
Beyond the ride itself, Tsutenkaku Tower offers the option to purchase a video of your slide experience, allowing you to relive the thrill or share it with friends. This adds a modern, shareable element to the traditional tower visit, making it an appealing attraction for younger visitors and families.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit